LSA for helmets

Whether you're cycling to work, hitting the mountain bike trails, or protecting yourself during recreational activities, quality helmets are essential safety equipment that can be expensive to replace. Smart employers recognize that supporting employee safety extends beyond the workplace, and that's where Forma's Lifestyle Spending Accounts come in to help your team stay protected while pursuing active lifestyles.

LSA for helmets: supporting employee safety and active lifestyles

Helmets represent a critical safety investment that employees often delay due to cost concerns. An LSA for helmets allows your workforce to access high-quality protective gear for cycling, skating, climbing, and other activities without the financial burden, promoting both safety and wellness.

What is an LSA for helmets?

An LSA for helmets is an employer-funded benefit account that enables employees to purchase protective headgear for various activities. This flexible spending option covers bicycle helmets, skateboarding helmets, climbing helmets, and other safety equipment that employees use during recreational or commuting activities.

Unlike traditional benefits that focus solely on workplace safety, helmet LSAs recognize that employee wellbeing extends to personal time and commuting. Companies can set specific parameters around eligible helmet types and spending limits while giving employees the freedom to choose equipment that matches their individual activities and preferences.

Can I get an LSA for helmets with Forma?

Yes, helmets are typically eligible expenses under most LSA programs, including those administered by Forma. The specific eligibility depends on your company's LSA policy design and the intended use of the helmet.

Most companies include helmets in their LSA programs under safety or wellness categories. Employees can typically claim reimbursement for bicycle helmets used for commuting, recreational cycling helmets, skateboarding protective gear, climbing helmets, and other activity-specific headgear.

Through Forma's platform, employees can easily submit helmet purchases by uploading receipts and providing brief descriptions of the equipment. The approval process is streamlined, and reimbursements are processed quickly. Companies can customize their helmet LSA policies to align with their workforce's most common activities and safety needs.

Why use an LSA for helmets?

Promotes employee safety culture

Supporting helmet purchases demonstrates your company's commitment to employee safety beyond the workplace. This investment in protective equipment shows you value their wellbeing during commuting and recreational activities.

Encourages active transportation

Many employees want to bike to work but hesitate due to helmet costs. LSA funding removes this barrier, potentially reducing parking needs and supporting environmental sustainability goals.

Supports diverse recreational activities

From mountain biking to rock climbing, employees pursue various activities requiring specialized helmets. LSAs accommodate these different interests without requiring separate benefit programs.

Reduces financial barriers to quality equipment

Quality helmets can cost $50-300 depending on the activity and features. LSA funding helps employees choose appropriate protection rather than compromising on safety due to price.

Builds employee loyalty

Covering practical safety equipment that employees actually need creates meaningful appreciation and demonstrates genuine care for their personal wellbeing.

How does an LSA for helmets work?

Step 1: Company establishes helmet eligibility

Your organization sets up LSA parameters that include helmets as eligible expenses, defining covered types and any spending limits.

Step 2: Employee purchases qualifying helmet

Team members buy helmets for cycling, skating, climbing, or other approved activities from any retailer.

Step 3: Employee submits reimbursement request

Using Forma's platform, employees upload receipts and briefly describe the helmet's intended use.

Step 4: Request gets reviewed and approved

The submission is reviewed against your company's LSA policy, with most helmet requests approved quickly.

Step 5: Employee receives reimbursement

Approved amounts are transferred to the employee's account according to your company's reimbursement schedule.

What are the benefits of an LSA for helmets?

Immediate safety impact

Employees can access quality protective equipment right away rather than delaying purchases due to budget constraints, reducing injury risk during activities.

Supports commuter wellness programs

Bike purchases and helmet LSAs work together to create comprehensive cycling support, encouraging active transportation options.

Flexible equipment choices

Unlike company-provided safety gear, LSAs let employees select helmets that fit properly and suit their specific activities, improving compliance and protection.

Tax-advantaged spending

LSA funds are typically tax-free for employees and tax-deductible for employers, making helmet purchases more cost-effective for everyone.

Easy administration

Forma's platform handles the entire process from submission to reimbursement, requiring minimal HR involvement while maintaining proper documentation.

Conclusion

LSAs for helmets represent a practical way to support employee safety while encouraging active lifestyles. By removing cost barriers to quality protective equipment, companies can demonstrate genuine care for employee wellbeing beyond traditional workplace benefits. The flexibility to choose appropriate gear for individual activities, combined with tax advantages and simple administration, makes helmet LSAs a valuable addition to any comprehensive benefits package.

FAQ

What types of helmets are typically covered by LSAs?

Most LSA programs cover bicycle helmets for commuting or recreation, skateboarding and rollerblading helmets, climbing and mountaineering helmets, and multi-sport helmets for various activities. Some companies also include specialized helmets for activities like kayaking or horseback riding. The specific coverage depends on your company's LSA policy and the safety-related nature of the equipment.

Do helmets need to meet specific safety standards for LSA eligibility?

While LSA policies vary by company, many organizations require helmets to meet recognized safety standards such as CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) for bicycle helmets or UIAA (International Climbing and Mountaineering Association) for climbing gear. This ensures employees are purchasing legitimate safety equipment rather than decorative items.

Can employees use LSA funds for helmet accessories and replacement parts?

Most LSA programs focus on the primary safety equipment (the helmet itself) rather than accessories. However, some companies include essential safety components like helmet lights for cycling or replacement padding. Check your specific LSA policy, as coverage for accessories varies significantly between organizations.

How often can employees claim helmet reimbursements through their LSA?

There's typically no specific limit on helmet purchase frequency through LSAs, as safety equipment wears out and needs replacement. However, companies may set annual spending limits or require justification for multiple expensive helmet purchases within a short timeframe. Most employees replace helmets every 3-5 years or after any significant impact.

What documentation is required for helmet LSA reimbursements?

Standard documentation includes the purchase receipt showing the helmet type, price, and date of purchase. Some companies also require a brief description of the helmet's intended use or confirmation that it meets safety standards. Fitness equipment submissions typically follow similar documentation requirements, making the process straightforward for employees familiar with LSA claims.